Christopher "Chris" Michael Whalen

Christopher Michael Whalen passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the age of 40. Chris grew up in Belchertown, Massachusetts, where he developed a deep love for soccer. He attended Cathedral High School, serving as captain of the varsity team before graduating in 2003. His talents on the field earned him a scholarship to the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, where he once again took on the role of captain and went on to earn a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in English.  After graduating, Chris worked at NEARI School, where he demonstrated a deep love for education and a compassionate spirit. He also worked for 20 years at the Belchertown Recreation Department as a referee. Later, he worked at Czar Energy, where he built strong relationships with both employees and customers alike. In his free time, he volunteered at the local soldiers' home, forming close friendships with WWII veterans. His passion for nature and the outdoors led him to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2021, where he assisted a fellow hiker in honoring his late brother, a military veteran, by spreading his ashes. Chris also welcomed many hikers into “the Mayor’s Office”—his Otis home—where those pursuing their trail dreams could rest and enjoy a hot meal. Chris’s steadfast support for our troops and those in need, along with his profound love for this country, was limitless.Known fondly as the self-proclaimed “Mayor of Belchertown,” Chris had a gift for lighting up every room he entered. His bright spirit and unmistakably loud—very loud—personality will forever be remembered.    He is survived by his mother and father, Carol and Michael; his brothers and sister, Jeromie, Ryan, and Michaela; his sisters-in-law, April and Sam; his niece and nephew, Autumn and Hunter.A visitation will be held Friday, February 28 from 4pm-7pm at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home with a continued remembrance time at the VFW in Belchertown.  The family is wishing to consider donations to a local mental health organization and the information will be updated as soon as it is available.